Orzo, Grape and Pistachio Salad

5.00 (16)
⏱ 260 mins 🍽 6 serving(s) 🏷 Berries

This distinctive salad combines orzo pasta with sweet red grapes and crunchy toasted pistachios. A fragrant dressing of walnut oil, lemon juice and garlic coats the pasta, while fresh basil adds a herbal note. It is designed to be made in advance, allowing the flavours to develop fully while chilling. Ideal as a side dish for special occasions or summer meals, it serves six people.

Orzo, Grape and Pistachio Salad

Ingredients

  • 1 lb orzo pasta
  • 2 cups red grapes
  • 2 cups pistachios, shelled and toasted
  • 1 cup basil, chopped
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup walnut oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped

Method

  1. Toast the pistachios by placing 1 cup of them into a saucepan with the walnut oil.
  2. Gently warm the oil and nuts together, ensuring the mixture does not reach a boil.
  3. Cook the chopped garlic in a small amount of olive oil until softened.
  4. Cook the orzo pasta according to the directions on its package.
  5. Once the orzo is drained, toss it with sufficient pistachio and walnut oil mixture to lightly coat it.
  6. Stir in lemon juice according to your preference.
  7. Incorporate the sauteed garlic into the orzo mixture.
  8. Fold in the red grapes and half of the chopped basil.
  9. Refrigerate the salad for several hours, or leave it overnight.
  10. Just before serving, add the remaining basil, season with salt and pepper, and scatter over the rest of the pistachios.

Nutrition (per serving)

Sodium6700 mg

Recipe details

CategoryBerries
AuthorGay Gilmore